Hiking Safely After Natural Disasters

Storms don’t just reshape landscapes—they reshape the hiking experience. In this episode of Shawn & Mike Take A Hike, we’re diving into a topic that many hikers don’t think about until it’s too late: how natural disasters like ice storms, wildfires, floods, and high winds can leave trails dangerous or completely inaccessible. After a recent ice storm in northern Michigan closed several trails for the entire summer, we realized just how important this conversation is.

We’ll talk about how to recognize hazards like “widowmakers” (dangling or broken branches ready to fall), unstable terrain, washed-out trail segments, damaged bridges, and the hidden risks that come with hiking in the aftermath of a natural event. We’ll also discuss how long-term storm damage can affect trail conditions, ecosystems, and wildlife activity—along with how to find accurate trail status updates from local land agencies and online platforms.

Most importantly, we’ll talk about why sometimes the best thing a hiker can do is stay home and wait—no matter how badly you want to get back out there. Respecting trail closures and giving trail crews time to clear and repair damage helps ensure safety for everyone and protects the long-term health of the wilderness areas we all love.

Whether you’re a beginner planning your first hike or an experienced backpacker eager to hit the trail after a big storm, this episode is packed with useful advice to help you hike smart, stay safe, and tread lightly.